“The crew initially tried to find the dog by digging into the field without success – but we were determined not to give up on this brave little animal.

“The life detector listening equipment is used in urban search and rescue situations where we try to locate people in collapsed buildings.

“Using a series of sequences we were able to pinpoint the approximate location of Bear who was stuck down one of the rabbit warrens.

“We dug down and were able to retrieve the dog who appeared a bit bewildered but in good health.

“It was crucial we acted as quick as possible so the animal didn’t injure itself.

“He was hydrated with water after his ordeal and after some cuddles from the crew and his owner he looked set to go chasing the rabbits again.”

And this is not the first time that firefighters have stepped into an unusual animal rescue.

They supported RZSS Edinburgh Zoo vets during a dental procedure involving Bertus the greater one-horned Indian rhino in November 2016.

They drew on their skills of searching collapsed buildings to safely manoeuvre the two-tonne animal safely into the correct position for the operation.

Highly-skilled firefighters were needed again in East Kilbride in February 2016 when they teamed up with the farming community to battle through challenging conditions and save the life of a horse.

Firefighters, skilled in rope rescue and water rescue, worked to free the animal, a female named Flash Dance – weighing 440 kilos – from two feet of mud at the bottom of a slope.

The crew then enlisted the help of a nearby farmer whose JCB digger was used to scoop away six feet of mud – allowing firefighters to get underneath the animal, secure ropes around her body and hoist her clear – She was tired, cold and dirty but otherwise uninjured.

Statutory responsibility for animal rescue lies with the Scottish SPCA however the SFRS will attend to support our SSPCA colleagues where requested and particularly where members of the public may also be in danger.

Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed animal should call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.

UK Fire is a quarterly journal specific to the UK Fire market dedicated to both fire protection and firefighting. The editorial features are written by industry experts and comprise a unique blend focussing on the latest technology, training methods and equipment as well as highlighting sector specific issues from around the region. Regular product and company profiles, events updates and news make UK Fire the first choice read for fire protection and firefighting professionals.